Safe cleanup and disposal of CFL bulbs

The Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH) has joined with the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) in educating the public about how to properly handle Compact Fluorescent Light bulbs, known as CFLs. The bulbs have become a popular way to provide light while reducing energy consumption.

However, consumers should realize that CFLs contain trace amounts of mercury and must be handled and disposed of properly.

CFLs have become a popular and easy way for Americans to fight high energy costs. The bulbs use less energy and are more efficient, leading to a longer bulb-life.

With popularity of CFL’s growing, however, the need for awareness of possible problems of the product also grows. Environmental groups warn that mercury spills that could come as a result of improper disposal of the bulbs must be better recognized.

The DPH has also released a fact sheet with instructions on how to clean up broken CFLs.

Pregnant women, children and pets should be kept away from the area around the broken bulb so they do not consume any mercury vapor or track traces of mercury to other areas.

To further reduce the risk of exposure, studies have shown that leaving the room for even 15 minutes after the bulb breaks is beneficial. When re-entering the room to start cleaning up, it is very important not to use a vacuum cleaner to pick up the mess.

 To find out more, visit the DPH Web site at ct.gov/dph or the EPA Web site at epa.gov/mercury/spills/index.